Yves Saint Laurent dies in Paris today

Photograph and text in quotes from Victoria and Albert Museum

'Mondrian'
Dress
Yves Saint Laurent
1965
Paris, France
Museum no. T.369-1974
Given to the Victoria and Albert Museum by Yves Saint Laurent

"This cocktail dress is from the Mondrian collection, inspired by the 1920s abstract paintings by the Dutch artist of the same name. It was featured on the front of French Vogue in September 1965 and many cheaper copies were produced for the mass market."

A couple of days ago, Eric, of Paris Daily Photo was asking his (English speaking) commenters to answer questions about their views on the French and the French culture (who do they think is most influencial, whether or not the French culture was still alive, etc). You can see the questions and a compliation of the answers right here if you are interested.

One of the question was "What do you think most defines France's reputation around the world?" To me, undoubtedly, part of the answer to that question is Haute Couture.

And so, today, a little bit of French culture died with Yves Saint Laurent's passing, since he clearly contributed a great deal to the art of Haute Couture. (Don't think for a minute that Haute Couture isn't an art; when you get to his level, it truly is).

YSL was most influential in his field around the world, and his creations will be remembered for a long, long time.

The Chronicle had an interesting article on his life, today, if you are interested. There is also a documentary about his life worth watching. The first part deals with Mr. Saint Laurent's life, and the second shows the confection of a dress and all the work that goes into it.

YSL was to fashion was Ella Fitzgerald was to Jazz. Rest in peace, YSL, and thank you so much for your creativity and vision.